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Bill > S3113
NJ S3113
NJ S3113Requires emergency shelters for the homeless to admit certain persons unless they pose danger.
summary
Introduced
04/15/2024
04/15/2024
In Committee
04/15/2024
04/15/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill prohibits emergency shelters for the homeless from restricting access to the shelter based on a perception or belief that a person is: (1) a drug or alcohol dependent person; (2) not in compliance with a prescription medication regimen; or (3) has consumed alcoholic beverages off the premises of the shelter. Current law prohibits emergency homeless shelters from refusing admittance to a person who is perceived or believed to have a mental illness. This bill expands the prohibition to include other members of vulnerable populations in need of shelter. Current law also provides that a shelter may prohibit admittance if there is a reasonable basis to believe that the person poses a danger to self, others, or property, or if the basis for the refusal is otherwise authorized by law or regulation. Under the bill, shelters would continue to have the authority to refuse admittance in these circumstances. Finally, the bill provides that shelters are authorized to prohibit the possession or consumption of controlled dangerous substances and alcoholic beverages on the premises.
AI Summary
This bill expands protections for individuals seeking shelter at emergency homeless shelters by prohibiting them from being denied entry based on a perception or belief that they have a mental illness, are dependent on drugs or alcohol (as defined by law), are not following their prescribed medication schedule, or have consumed alcohol off-site, unless there's a reasonable belief they pose a danger to themselves, others, or property, or if another legal reason for refusal exists. The bill also clarifies that shelters can still ban the possession or use of controlled dangerous substances and alcoholic beverages on their premises, and it takes effect immediately.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee (on 04/15/2024)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3113 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S3500/3113_I1.HTM |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S3500/3113_I1.HTM |
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